Qatar Airways announced that it will resume daily flights to Canberra, Australia, starting in December 2025. This decision marks a significant expansion for the airline in the Australian market and follows the airline's commitment to enhancing its global network post the global health crisis. The flights will operate through Melbourne, providing Canberra with a connection to Qatar's hub in Doha and further linking it to over 170 destinations worldwide via Hamad International Airport.
The route will be serviced by Qatar Airways' Boeing 777 aircraft, which feature the airline's award-winning Qsuite business class. This resumption of service comes after a period of absence from Canberra, with the airline previously flying to the city before the onset of the global health crisis. The daily service from Doha to Canberra via Melbourne will not only enhance connectivity for travelers from the Australian capital but also boost trade, tourism, and business links between Australia and the Middle East.
The flight itinerary includes a departure from Doha at 02:30, arriving in Melbourne at 22:40. After a short layover, the flight will continue to Canberra, landing at 00:15 the following day. The return leg will depart Canberra at 01:50, arriving back in Melbourne at 03:25 before heading back to Doha, with a departure time of 04:45 and an arrival in Doha at 16:45. All times are local.
This move aligns with Qatar Airways' strategy of expanding into key markets and supporting Canberra's ambitions to boost its international connectivity. The airline has been actively working on its network growth, focusing on both frequency increases and new destinations to cater to the growing demand for travel. The resumption of flights to Canberra is also seen as a vote of confidence in the city's economy and its role as Australia's political hub. Additionally, this development is expected to stimulate tourism by making Canberra more accessible to international visitors, particularly from Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. The partnership with Melbourne also offers travelers more flexible travel options within Australia, enhancing the overall travel experience and reinforcing Qatar Airways' commitment to providing extensive global connectivity.